About: Javacia Harris Bowser
Javacia is a freelance writer based in Birmingham and the founder of See Jane Write, a website and community for women who write and blog. Three things she can't live without are tacos, her Day Designer planner, and music by Beyonce.
She’s Filling a Void for BHM Women (& Beyond): Meet Emily Lassiter of The Wealth Edit
Emily Lassiter helps women be more confident about money management. Find out more about her business, The Wealth Edit, get her best advice and more!
The BHM Woman Working to Change the World with Science
Dr. Adrienne Starks is an advocate for women in STEM, founding STREAM Innovations, an organization helping students in underserved communities explore their passion for science and beyond. Meet this inspiring FACE of Birmingham!
What BHM Bookstore Owners are Reading This Spring
We talked to Birmingham bookstore owners to find out what books they’ve been into and what they plan to read this spring. Here are their suggestions!
Go Beyond the Sidelines with Lauren Sisler
Lauren Sisler is an award-winning sports reporter making big waves in a male-dominated industry. Learn more about the challenges and hard work that have led her to this notable position. Welcome our newest FACE of Birmingham.
3 Stories on Women to Brighten Your Day
In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re saluting three trailblazing women who often don’t get the recognition they deserve for the paths they paved. Each story is fascinating enough for an entire movie to be created!
Meet The Pizitz Building Muralist Who United BHM
If you’ve been to downtown Birmingham recently, chances are you’ve seen Amanda Blake’s art. Here, she shares what inspired her to start BHM Artist Collective and how she helps our local community grow and heal. Image: Amanda Blake
Jones Valley Teaching Farm Changes Lives With Food
Jones Valley Teaching Farm boosts academic achievement through farming and food. Now, the beloved Birmingham nonprofit is putting a flag in the ground with its new Center for Food Education.
They’re Making Fashion Accessible
Through The Style That Binds Us, mother-daughter duo Alison Bruhn and Delia Folk pull back the curtain on the fashion industry. No matter a woman’s age, size, or skin color, they want her to feel included. We’re pleased to welcome our newest FACES of Birmingham!
She’s Setting the Stage for the 2022 World Games: Meet Rashada LeRoy
Rashada LeRoy has definitely adapted her business to maneuver the pandemic. Find out how she’s changed her approach, the key to a perfect event and her best piece of advice.
She Helps Women Reach Their Financial Goals: Meet DeLynn Zell
As CEO and co-founder of Bridgeworth Wealth Management, DeLynn Zell helps women invest, save and plan for their financial futures. Meet this inspiring FACE of Birmingham!
Bernadine Birdsong of Michael’s Restaurant: FACES of Birmingham
Bernadine Birdsong and her family brought Michael’s Restaurant back home when they reopened it in the Negro Southern League Museum earlier this year. We talked with Bernadine about the new Michael’s and life in the restaurant business.
The Reason You Should Buy THESE Holiday Cards This Year
Getting into the spirit of the season is easy when you purchase holiday cards from The HeART of Children’s holiday card program. Learn more about this special initiative from Children’s of Alabama.
Birmingham’s Newest Interior Design Duo
Through Home with Hechart, mother-daughter duo Alex Hechart and Donna Woodfin offer interior design services and sell home decor. Today, they tell us about building a business with family and what it takes to make a house a home.
The Woman Who Watches Over Vulcan
As President and CEO of Vulcan Park & Museum, Darlene Negrotto is confident she has the coolest job in Birmingham. Meet this inspiring FACE and learn how she cares for our city’s iconic iron man.
When a Scientist Opens a Cocktail Bar
Rylie Hightower is known for her ideas. In addition to being the founder of The Lumbar, she is also a neuroscience graduate student at UAB. Meet this innovative FACE of Birmingham!
Meet the Chef Behind the Eat at Panoptic Food Truck
All her life, Chef Raquel Ervin has been told to “keep pushing,” so instead of abandoning her plans to open a restaurant amid the pandemic, Raquel pushed ahead and debuted the Eat at Panoptic food truck. We’re excited to introduce our newest FACE of Birmingham!
Birmingham’s New Boutique Collective and Social Lounge
Orchard House Beta is Birmingham’s first coworking collective for women. Step inside this new, beautiful social lounge and learn about its mission to “educate, empower, and lift up” women.
Casi Ferguson on Why Schools Matter: FACES of Birmingham
When the pandemic canceled this local organization’s sold-out gala, Casi Ferguson found a virtual alternative. Find out more about this dynamic FACE of Birmingham and how you can help support the UNCF’s fundraising efforts.
Welcome to Main Street Alabama
Main Street Alabama leaves communities better than they are found by building on history, culture and unique attributes to cultivate sustainable change.
2 Local Nurses, 1 Common Bond
For Brooke Routon and Jazzlind Cunningham, their own experiences as Children’s of Alabama patients led them to pursue nursing careers and return to the very place that took such great care of them. Read their inspiring stories.
The Birmingham Stylist You Need to Know
With 42,000+ Instagram followers, Emma “Funmi” Ford doesn’t consider herself an influencer, but rather someone who bridges the gap between cultural and fashion barriers. Meet this stylish FACE of Birmingham!
“What Inspires You?” How 3 Local Creatives Find Inspiration in Birmingham
Some of the Magic City’s most creative people can be found at Pepper Place. Today we talk to three business owners who share what inspires them about Birmingham.
Moving From NY to BHM: Barbara Burton Recruits From the Heart
Barbara Burton loves Birmingham so much that she created a business centered around getting other people to love the city, too. Meet this inspiring FACE of Birmingham!
Rosilyn Houston: FACES of Birmingham
Rosilyn Houston is the highest-ranking female in BBVA’s U.S. division, often being the first female or African American to hold the positions she’s had. But she’s determined to not be the only. Meet this trailblazing FACE of Birmingham!
Meet Alabama’s First Female Hall of Fame Inductee
After MAKING history as a world-renowned water skier, Leah Rawls Atkins went on to TEACH history. Meet this legendary FACE of Birmingham!
Meet Country Music’s Newest Rising Star
Country artist Tiera uses her platform and music to shed light on important matters and movements. Meet our newest FACE of the South! Image: Kam Studios
Meet Country Music’s Newest Rising Star
Country artist Tiera uses her platform and music to shed light on important matters and movements. Meet our newest FACE of the South! Image: Kam Studios
Madison Freeman: FACES of Birmingham
Behind her glamourous Instagram account is an influencer working hard to provide followers with the best content possible. Meet Madison Freeman of My Open Door and discover what it’s really like to be an influencer.
7 Ways to Safely Enjoy Birmingham This Summer
Sure, we’re all ready to get out and about, but it’s important to smart and safe. Pepper Place has put measures in place to ensure guests can enjoy a summer outing and feel safe, too! Here’s what’s going on at this hot Birmingham destination.
Meet Hand in Paw’s Ashley Foster: FACES of Birmingham
After returning to her hometown of Birmingham, AL, Ashley Foster knew she wanted to get involved with Hand in Paw, an animal-assisted therapy nonprofit. Find out more about this unique organization and the tremendous work they do throughout the city.
Sandi Eubank Gregory: FACES of Birmingham
Sandi Eubank Gregory has experience with divorce in her family, which was one of the factors that led her to a career in family law. Find out what this job is really like, why she loves having her own practice and more.
6 Ways to Protect Your Child From Abuse
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. Here are six suggestions from the experts at Children’s of Alabama to keep your children safe, always!
Meet Charlotte Evans Russell of Charlotte’s Happy Home
Growing up, Charlotte Evans Russell never had a stable home. But through a treacherous path to recovery and the Lord, she created the happy home she always wanted.
Crestwood’s New Community Hub
At its surface, Thank You Books seems like just a bookstore. But it’s actually so much more. Learn more about this treasured locally owned business and the magic you’ll find there.
The New Vision for The Red Cat Coffee House at Pepper Place
New ownership is bringing about several exciting new developments at this beloved Birmingham coffee shop. Meet The Red Cat owners and find out what’s in store.
The Rebranding of Historic Ensley
Locals describe Ensley as “an area that’s been neglected for far too long.” Although outsiders tend to glance over this historic neighborhood’s history, art and community, its narrative is starting to be rewritten. Learn more about the rebranding of Ensley.
Delta Vintage Founder Claire Brandon: FACES of Nashville
With an impressive background working for brands such as Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger, Nashville’s Claire Brandon is honoring and promoting the Mississippi Delta through her vintage apparel brand, Delta Vintage.
Bib & Tucker: A Modern-Day Quilting Circle
Bib & Tucker is Birmingham’s hub for all things sewing. With a host of activities and programs that promote empowerment, education and economic opportunity, Bib & Tucker is committed to cultivating skills and community for anyone who wants to sew.
Delta Vintage Founder Claire Brandon: FACES of the South
With an impressive background working for brands such as Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger, Nashville’s Claire Brandon is honoring and promoting the Mississippi Delta through her vintage apparel brand, Delta Vintage.
Are Electric Toothbrushes Worth the Money? 10 Dental Questions, Answered
If you fear the dentist or simply have dental questions you want answered, you’ll definitely want to read this!
Sharing Laughter & Light in the Face of Cancer: Meet Carla Youngblood
By day, she is the Director of Compliance and Special Projects at Urban Impact, but after hours, she is a comedian and motivational speaker. Meet our newest FACE of Birmingham, Carla Youngblood!
The Mercantile by Miller: Where to Shop 40+ Southern Makers
You could spend hours browsing the booths and galleries at The Mercantile by Miller. From clothing and jewelry to art and home decor, it’s impossible to walk out empty-handed. Find out more about this unique Birmingham shopping destination.
How to Shop for Antique Furniture for Your Home
If you love antiques but haven’t a clue on how to shop for antique furniture, we have you covered. The antiques experts from Lolo French Antiques et More share their top tips for selecting antiques.
She’s Reigniting Interest in Ensley: Meet Bettina Byrd-Giles
Bettina Byrd-Giles took her enthusiasm for Birmingham’s Ensley neighborhood and made it her mission to shift the narrative. Now, with her latest project, Branding Ensley, she’s helping to transform the community. Meet our newest FACE!
The One Word to Remove From the Mental Health Conversation
When Nadia Richardson addressed the mental health concerns of African American women by beginning a Facebook page called No More Martyrs, she had no idea it would turn into a nationwide campaign. Learn more about this inspiring Birmingham FACE and her tireless efforts.
How to Handle Grief During the Holidays
The holidays can be a tough time for those who have lost a loved one. Here are some expert pointers on how to handle grief during the holidays.
5 Things to Consider Before You File for Divorce
If your marital relationship is coming to an end, and you’re considering filing for divorce, make sure you have done the work in advance to ensure it’s a smart split. Here are five things to consider before you file.
Brenda Meadows of The Lingerie Shoppe: FACES of Birmingham
Opened in 1946, The Lingerie Shoppe offers high-quality undergarments, sleepwear and lingerie to generations of Southern women, and Brenda Meadows is at the helm of this well-established boutique. Meet our newest FACE of Birmingham!
The Podcast You Should Be Listening To — and the Woman Behind It
One-half of the duo behind one of the most popular podcasts in the country, Jamie Golden’s hilarious take on all things pop culture has helped The Popcast with Knox and Jamie build its huge fan base. Meet our newest FACE of Birmingham.
The Woman Who Brought Barbie To Birmingham
As the Hugh Kaul Curator of Contemporary Art at the Birmingham Museum of Art, Hallie Ringle believes that art is for all, and it extends beyond the typical notions of what can be found in a museum. Meet our newest FACE of Birmingham!
Expert Tips for Disconnecting
Business owners are often the last to take vacations, and if they do, it’s difficult to really unplug. But Dr. Martha Anne Rich can help.
Dr. Leesha Ellis-Cox: FACES of Birmingham
This Birmingham psychiatrist wants to help mothers everywhere “ditch the mommy guilt.” Meet our newest FACE of Birmingham, Dr. Leesha Ellis.
Your Complete Guide to Five Points South
Longtime Birmingham residents know that Five Points South was one of the city’s first and — at one time — most popular nightlife destinations. Here is your all-inclusive guide to the best places to eat, shop and play in this dynamic area of town.
Meet Two-Time Paralympian Karin Korb
Karin Korb was a competitive gymnast until an accident left her paralyzed. Now, she’s a two-time Paralympian and an access advocate with Lakeshore Foundation. Meet this motivated and dynamic FACE of Birmingham.
Jennifer Hunt of Dixie Design Collective: FACES of Birmingham
After identifying a void in the market and with a solid accounting background, Jennifer Hunt thought big and went for it, launching Dixie Design Collective. Find out her best advice, her favorite local restaurants and the secret to her success.
Sally Bird of Dot Fox: FACES of Louisville
A Highlands shopowner, entrepreneur and joy-seeker, Sally Bird of Dot Fox spills some keys to her retail success, her favorite Louisville spots and where she finds joy in everyday life. Get to know this inspiring FACE of Louisville.
Forensic Scientist Turned Freelance Artist: Meet Jamie Bonfigilo
Jamie Bonfiglio rerouted her career in forensic science to follow her passion for painting. Now, the full-time artist’s portrait of the mayor hangs in his office, and she’s teaching art classes in Birmingham. Get to know this inspiring FACE!
Giving Ladies a Leading Edge: Meet Shella Sylla of SisterGolf
When Shella Sylla realized that her male co-workers were closing business deals on the golf course, she decided to level the playing field for all women. Meet our inspiring new FACE of Birmingham!
Giving Ladies a Leading Edge: Meet Shella Sylla of SisterGolf
When Shella Sylla realized that her male co-workers were closing business deals on the golf course, she decided to level the playing field for all women.
Reviving Fourth Avenue: Past, Present & Future
The Fourth Avenue Business District, long home to many of Birmingham’s black-owned restaurants and retailers, is now poised for revitalization.
Harmony Mendoza, WVTM 13 Meteorologist: FACE of Birmingham
Harmony Mendoza not only is a weather expert, but she is, herself, a force of nature — putting her open-mindedness to work for the betterment of Alabamians.
Fashion Designer Kenya Buchanan: FACES of Birmingham
Fashion designer Kenya Buchanan won Magic City Fashion Week’s competition and is committed to growing her fashion empire from right here in Birmingham. Meet our newest FACE of Birmingham.
Shannon Spotswood of RFG Advisory: FACES of Birmingham
Shannon Spotswood asked for a subscription to The Wall Street Journal for her 14th birthday. She’s now the president of RFG Advisory and our FACE of Birmingham!
3 Downtown Birmingham Boutiques We Love
These downtown Birmingham boutiques are within walking distance of fabulous eateries, bars and each other. Make a day of it, and check them out!
Catch Up With Jane Comer, Our FACE of Birmingham
Jane Comer has changed Birmingham for the better. We caught up with this entrepreneur, philanthropist, girls and arts advocate and children’s book author.
Artist Tracy Martin of Birmingham Day of the Dead: FACES of Birmingham
Artist and Birmingham Day of the Dead Cofounder Tracy Martin discusses the wildly popular festival, her creative process and honoring the legacy of her renowned photojournalist father, Spider Martin.
Harmony Mendoza, WVTM 13 Meteorologist: FACES of Birmingham
Harmony Mendoza not only is a weather expert, but she is, herself, a force of nature — putting her open-mindedness to work for the betterment of Alabamians.
Melanie R. Bridgeforth, CEO of The Women’s Fund: FACES of Birmingham
By making a direct impact on local women, Melanie R. Bridgeforth hopes to see a positive ripple effect for generations to come. Meet our newest FACE of Birmingham.
Kimberly Stephens of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s: FACES of Birmingham
She co-chairs the Walk to End Alzheimer’s and advocates for awareness of the national Alzheimer’s epidemic so change can happen. Meet Kimberly Stephens.
Babysitters Impossible to Find? This App Can Help
A self-proclaimed “early adopter,” Lauren Mabry Cater loved using the babysitting app Wyndy so much that she became the company’s marketing director. Find out about the app, why Lauren loves it and how it can change your life, too!
Captain Janice Blackwell of the Birmingham Police Department: FACES of Birmingham
She works in the Birmingham Police Department’s Special Victims Unit, advocating for victims of domestic violence and child sex trafficking. Meet Captain Janice Blackwell, our newest FACE of Birmingham.
Forge CEO & Founder Kim Lee: FACES of Birmingham
She put the “what if”s aside in order to take the entrepreneurial leap, and the rewards have been tremendous. Meet Kim Lee, our newest FACE of Birmingham.
Magic City Poetry Festival Founder Ashley M. Jones: FACES of Birmingham
She’s bringing poetry to the Magic City. Meet award-winning poet, ASFA & UAB teacher and the brains behind the Magic City Poetry Festival, Ashley M. Jones.
Hidden History of Vulcan, the Magic City’s Iconic Iron Man
From his 1904 World’s Fair debut to local advertising mascot to traffic awareness emblem, Vulcan has a rich history and his park and museum are building on that legacy. Image: Vulcan Park & Museum
Verna Gates, Journalist, Author & Founder of Fresh Air Family: FACES of Birmingham
This Birmingham native, journalist, author and founder of nonprofit Fresh Air Family was one of the first 50 people hired at CNN. Meet Verna Gates, our newest FACE of Birmingham!
10 Historical Facts About Birmingham We Bet You Didn’t Know
From surprising trivia to intriguing stories, these 10 historical facts about Birmingham are sure to impress your friends.
Kristen Greenwood, Executive Director of GirlSpring: FACES of Birmingham
After working with teens at the Birmingham Museum of Art for 15 years, she realized that she wanted to do more to empower girls. Meet Kristen Greenwood, our newest FACE of Birmingham!
ABC 33/40 Anchor & Co-Host Javanté Ingram: FACES of Birmingham
Her passion for Birmingham and others shines through her work as an ABC 33/40 news anchor. Meet today’s FACE of Birmingham, Javanté Ingram.
Do You Really Need Those Supplements and Vitamins?
If you’re loading up on handfuls of vitamins and supplements, you may be doing more harm than good. We talked to health experts to find out if you need to be popping pills each day.
Author Gin Phillips: FACES of Birmingham
A nationally recognized author and local student advocate, Gin Phillips uses storytelling to move her readers and to inspire students. Meet today’s FACE of Birmingham.
Eryka Perry of Not Just Catering & Michael’s Restaurant: FACES of Birmingham
Eryka Perry is determined to make Not Just Catering live up to its name. Her catering company cultivates adventurous, knowledgeable, healthy and happy eaters.
Chandler Bibb of Children’s of Alabama: FACES of Birmingham
As Director of Development for Children’s of Alabama, she’s a “matchmaker” of community resources with hospital needs. Meet Chandler Bibb.
LaVonne Williamson of the St. Elias Lebanese Food and Cultural Festival: FACES of Birmingham
She’s spent nearly 20 years sharing the traditions, food and culture of the Lebanese community through the St. Elias Lebanese Food and Cultural Festival. Meet LaVonne Williamson, today’s FACE of Birmingham!
Khaula Hadeed of the Council on American-Islamic Relations of Alabama: FACES of Birmingham
In the cradle of the Civil Rights movement, a new kind of heroine emerges, illuminating Alabama’s oft-unsung, courageous and rich tapestry of diverse cultures. Meet Khaula Hadeed.
Shauna Stuart of AL.com: FACES of Birmingham
She’s debunking the myth of the delicate, docile Southern female, and giving girls in the South a platform to share their voices. Meet Shauna Stuart, today’s FACE of Birmingham.
Maacah Davis of Belladonna Magazine: FACES of Birmingham
This self-motivated 22-year-old is poised to become a media mogul, an inspiring example of progress for feminism and diversity in the heart of the Magic City.
Civil Rights Activist T. Marie King: FACES of Birmingham
When she’s not exposing our city’s children to the arts, she’s hosting racial reconciliation workshops, mentoring local students and helping low-income families. Meet T. Marie King.
Andrea Taylor of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute: FACES of Birmingham
Andrea Taylor’s resume will astound you. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute CEO is changing the face of our city with her forward-thinking initiatives.
Andrea Taylor of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute: FACES of the South
Andrea Taylor’s resume will astound you. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute CEO is changing the face of her city with her forward-thinking initiatives.
Dylan Ferniany: FACES of Birmingham
Dylan Ferniany is a TEDxBirmingham TED-Ed innovator and program specialist for the gifted and talented education program for Birmingham City Schools. As such, she’s changing the face of Birmingham education. Today we’re thrilled to feature her as our FACE of Birmingham!
Sally Mackin of the Woodlawn Foundation: FACES of Birmingham
She listens closely to the residents of Woodlawn as she works with them to support the revitalization of this up-and-coming community. Meet today’s FACE of Birmingham, Sally Mackin!
Have You Tried Fat Girl Yoga? It’s For ALL Sizes
Nancy Roberts is changing the way people think about the yoga, by encouraging all ages and body types to step up to the yoga mat in her Fat Girl Yoga class.
Chandler Bibb: FACES of Birmingham
As Director of Development for Children’s of Alabama, she’s a “matchmaker” of community resources and the hospital’s needs. Meet Chandler Bibb, today’s FACE of Birmingham.
How to Dress Like a Fashion Blogger
Five Birmingham bloggers share their advice for how to embrace your personal style with confidence, as well as their wardrobe essentials and more.
Glenny Brock: FACES of Birmingham
Glenny Brock brought new life to The Lyric Theatre, but she claims that the historic theater has expanded her own life in ways she never imagined.
Melissa Scott: FACES of Birmingham
This forward-thinking yoga instructor is leading a movement to help people banish body image issues and embrace unique strengths. Meet Melissa Scott, today’s FACE of Birmingham!